HIGH NUMBER OF APPLICATIONS FOR GROUP BROADBAND

Minister for Communications, Marine and Natural Resources, Noel Dempsey T.D., has welcomed the level of interest shown in his Department’s Group Broadband Scheme. The closing date for the first call for applications was 11 October and over 50 applications have been received across 16 counties. The new scheme is open to all smaller and rural communities of less then 1,500 people. It will empower local communities to draw up and implement their own broadband plans either on their own, or in partnership with broadband service providers. The Government provides 55% capital funding – the maximum allowable under EU rules. Kilbeggan and Kinnegad, Co. Westmeath and Gaoth Dobhair, Co. Donegal have already been approved for the Scheme. www.dcmnr.gov.ie